Deep Dive Bordeaux: Biodynamic Viticulture
Hosted by Jane Anson, Florence Cathiard, Daniel Cathiard, Yann Laudeho Leroy, Justine Tesseron, Bérénice Lurton, Frédéric Nivelle & Yuanjun Zhang
While Bordeaux may not have carved out a name for itself as a hotbed of biodynamic viticulture, there exist a clutch of producers who have been quietly guided by its principles for years; furthermore, these are not boutique, artisanal operations, but some of the world’s most distinguished names such as Smith Haut Lafitte, Palmer and Latour.
Dipping into this world of lunar calendars, compost preparations and fruit-versus-root days, Jane Anson speaks to Bordeaux’s biodynamic pioneer, Pontet-Canet, to hear how this once-considered extreme practice is achievable in such a capricious climate, and sits down with Yuanjun Zhang, wine buyer and sommelier at Bordeaux’s Tchin Tchin Wine Bar, for a tasting of superlative wines from these top-flight properties.
Château Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc, Pessac-Léognan 2018
Château Fonplégade, Grand Cru Classé, Saint-Émilion 2016
Château Pontet-Canet, Cinquième Grand Cru Classé, Pauillac 2014
Château Palmer, Troisième Grand Cru Classé, Margaux 2010
Château Latour, Premier Grand Cru Classé, Pauillac 2009
Château Climens, Premier Grand Cru Classé, Barsac 2011